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Catarrh

Nasal congestion or catarrh is one of the most common problems to affect the nose, and is usually due to infection (particularly the common cold) or allergies such as hay fever.

Catarrh is caused by the membrane lining of the nose and sinuses becoming inflamed and irritated. This produces an increase in the amount of mucus produced in the linings, and there is a build up of this sticky secretion.

The lining of the nose swells and the airways become narrower and are more easily blocked. This makes it difficult to breath through the nose. Sinus congestion and infection (sinusitis) can also occur.